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FUNERAL GUIDANCE

Thinking about a natural burial

A natural setting may be important to you, alongside practical and personal considerations.

Originally published

On this page

Look at the whole arrangement

A natural burial considers the setting, materials and how the ground is managed. Environmental comparisons depend on the complete arrangements, including travel; no funeral label proves a fixed environmental saving.

natural burial casket

Choosing a coffin or shroud

Options can include willow, bamboo, cardboard and other biodegradable materials accepted by the chosen ground. A transfer coffin and a coffin intended for burial have different uses; ask us to explain suitability.

Casket option for a natural burial

Make room for a personal ceremony

Music, readings and a graveside gathering may be possible. Discuss shelter, seating, access and attendance with the park and funeral director rather than assuming they are included.

Green Burial Service with family in the background

Understand the costs and memorial rules

Ask separately about the funeral director, plot, interment, ceremony and any memorial. Confirm the rights you are buying, permitted memorials and future maintenance arrangements.

Visit before deciding

Respect GB handles visits to its two parks. General guidance stays here; the dedicated Direct Burial service handles unattended burial enquiries. Planning wishes and purchasing a plot are separate decisions.

First published in 2018.

Call 0800 206 2210